The Russian 2S3 Self propelled Gun

The Russian 2S3 Self propelled Gun aka SO-152 and as the M1973 in the West. It entered service in the early 1970’s and was only manufactured in Russia.

The hull has the driver (who has nigh vision) and the 520hp V-12 diesel engine (top road speed 60km/h) up front and the turret in the rear.

The turret houses the 152mm calibre main ordnance, which is based on the towed D-20 howitzer. IT can fire HE-FRAG, HEAT-FS, AP-T, illuminating and smoke to a range of 18.5mil and 24mil with rocket assistance. 46 rounds are stored in the turret, which has a full 360 degree powered traverse.

The x6 crew have protection from splinter and MG fire. They also have NBC protection. 2 of the crew serve as ammunition handlers, passing rounds and charges in to the firing compartment (turret) through 2 hatches in the rear of the hull.

Later upgrades were made during the vehicles production run – 2S3M, 2S3M1, 2S3M2 (which has a calibre length 39) and 2S3M3 for the export market.